Key Points
- Pakistan launched a massive drone and missile attack on 36 Indian military bases across multiple states on the night of May 8–9, deploying 300–400 drones, many of Turkish origin.
- India’s advanced air defense systems, including the S-400, successfully intercepted and neutralized the aerial threats, preventing major damage.
- The attacks resulted in the deaths of two students in Poonch and injuries to several soldiers.
- Pakistan used civilian airliners as shields during the attack, keeping its airspace open to complicate India’s defensive response and risking civilian lives.
- India has suspended the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor and warned of further consequences as tensions escalate.
New Delhi: In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, Pakistan launched a coordinated drone and missile assault on Indian military installations across Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat on the night of May 8–9. The attack, which targeted 36 military bases and key infrastructure including Jammu Airport, Pathankot Airbase, and the Jammu-Pathankot National Highway, was described by Indian officials as the largest aerial intrusion in recent memory.
Attack Details and Indian Response
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) press briefing in New Delhi, Pakistan deployed between 300 and 400 drones-many identified as Turkish-made Asisguard Songar models-along with several missiles in an attempt to overwhelm Indian air defenses and gather intelligence on sensitive sites. The attack spanned from Leh in the north to Sir Creek in the south, with drone swarms and missile strikes reported in cities such as Chandigarh, Jaisalmer, Jalandhar, Ambala, Tangdhar, Uri, Poonch, Akhnoor, and Rajouri.
Indian air defense systems, including the S-400 and a range of counter-unmanned aerial systems, responded with precision, neutralizing the majority of incoming threats and preventing significant damage. Despite the scale of the attack, Indian authorities confirmed that there were no major losses at military installations, though two students were killed in Poonch and several soldiers were injured.
Pakistan’s Use of Civilian Airliners as Shields
A particularly alarming aspect of the attack was Pakistan’s decision to keep its civilian airspace open during the operation. According to Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sofia Qureshi, Pakistan deliberately used civilian airliners as shields, flying them near the border to complicate India’s defensive response and risk the safety of innocent passengers. Indian officials presented flight-tracking evidence showing active civil aviation routes between Karachi and Lahore during the attack window.
Motives and Aftermath
Indian officials believe the primary aim of the Pakistani drone swarm was to test India’s air defense readiness and gather intelligence on military deployments. Forensic investigations are underway on the downed drones, with initial findings confirming Turkish origins.
In response to the attacks and heightened security risks, India has suspended the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor for pilgrims until further notice. Emergency measures, including blackouts and movement restrictions, were imposed in several border cities to ensure civilian safety.
India’s Retaliation and Ongoing Tensions
Following the failed attack, India launched retaliatory strikes targeting four Pakistani air defense sites, reportedly destroying at least one radar installation. The situation remains tense, with both sides on high alert and further escalation possible.
Pakistan’s unprecedented drone and missile attack on Indian military bases was decisively thwarted by India’s advanced air defense systems. The use of civilian airliners as shields by Pakistan has drawn international concern, while India’s suspension of the Kartarpur Corridor signals a hardening stance amid escalating hostilities. Both nations remain on high alert as the crisis continues to unfold.
